Yuma Territorial Prison 

ARIZONA STATE PARKS: AN ONGOING COMMUNITY-BASED PARTNERSHIP

In 2010, the Heritage Area stepped forward to save and manage two state parks located in the City Yuma after state budget cuts threatened the closure of the parks. The Heritage Area continues to manage the Yuma Territorial Prison (YTP) and Colorado River State Historic Park (CRSHP) on behalf of the City of Yuma per the City’s 15-year agreement with Arizona State Parks and Trails, signed in 2016. The Heritage Area continues dialogue with Arizona State Parks and Trails to discuss much needed investment in infrastructure restoration to preserve the two state parks for future generations.

Through excellent management and marketing, the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park has more than doubled its revenues since 2010 and has developed a long-term capital improvement program. This year, ongoing maintenance of the park buildings and grounds was completed including xeriscape landscape and sidewalk improvements between the museum and sally port in an effort to eliminate adobe erosion and provide wider walkways.